Emergency and disaster declaration in the books

In a special meeting, Oconee County Council approved an emergency and disaster declaration that gives the county extraordinary authority in the aftermath of the damage caused by the EF3 tornado.  All five councilmen voted yes, and it is Glenn Hart’s impression that the main part of it is the authority to block roadways to protect and enhance the safety of repair crews.  One apparent example of that is the juncture of Wells Highway with 123, the Seneca-Clemson corridor, which was blocked early this afternoon to traffic attempting to turn from 123 onto Wells.One part of the declaration allow the county, if necessary, to suspend public activities and impose a curfew. Seneca Police Chief John Covington says two nights of a citywide curfew have worked well, thanks to the cooperation of the public, and he’s unsure if a third night will be necessary.